An introduction to Niko

Since 1985 Niko has provided professional avalanche education in the US, Canada and internationally. Niko is a Professional Member of the Canadian Avalanche Association (1991) and is widely considered one of the most experienced and innovative avalanche educators in North America.

Niko Specializes in:

  • Avalanche Search and Rescue [ SAR ] Courses
  • Avalanche beacons and training methodologies
  • Recreational avalanche survival courses training
  • Courses for Members and Leaders of the BC Provincial EmergencyProgram (administered by the Justice Institute of BC (JI) )
  • Snow Safety risk management for operators, groups and advanced recreationalists
  • The interpretation of graphical avalanche bulletins and other information
  • Snowmobile specific courses
  • Current forecaster at the Vancouver Island Avalanche Centre
  • Educator and trainer of the Canadian Military 442 Rescue Squadron

Other credentials and accolades

  • Teaching and leading avalanche courses since 1986
  • Co-creator of the first on line avalanche course in the world
  • Current instructor for the International Ski Academy Section 8
  • As the Co Author of “Graphical Interpretation of Avalanche Bulletins” ISSW 2004
  • Leading-edge avalanche rescue beacon searching methods
  • Co-founder of Provincial Search and Rescue avalanche training programs 1992 to present.
  • Board of Directors and Past President Canadian Avalanche Association
  • The original curriculum writer for PEP BC SAR specific courses
  • As subject matter Expert for the “ON-LINE Avalanche Course” JIBC
  • 25 Years Avalanche Control and Education
  • 5 Years Avalanche Survival Instruction in Canada & the United States
  • Provincial Park Backcountry Ranger
  • 15 Years BC Parks Backcountry Senior Ranger
  • Survival Skills and Navigation
  • Mountaineering and multi day traverses
  • Nutritional and physical performance counselor
  • Snow Rescue Systems
  • Winter Resort management
  • Special Event planning and oversight
  • Canada West Risk Management Committee
  • Advanced first aid and Paramedic training since 1984
  • Team building and facilitation for groups.

Affiliations include

  • Professional Member – Canadian Avalanche Association
  • Professional Member – American Avalanche Association
  • Provincial Emergency Program of BC
  • Association of Industrial First Aid Attendants of BC
  • Worker’s Compensation Board of BC